In the fall of 1913 a group of six
senior women at the University of Vermont formed an honor society for
the advancement of women, which aimed at leadership and unselfish
service. Eligibility for admittance into this society included
"good academics, fine character, willingness to assume responsibility,
and to give time and energy to promoting worthwhile activities on the
campus." Because of its membership requirements the society
called itself AKRAIA, which in Classic Greek means the highest, the
peak, the top of the student body.

In 1922 AKRAIA applied for membership in Mortar Board. Membership
was granted in 1924.

Since AKRAIA's establishment its members have striven to uphold the
aims of the original founders. Each year the members continue to
proudly uphold its traditions, both as individuals and as a united
whole. Our time together is full of planning, laughing, meetings,
personal triumphs, decisions both small and large, and the excitement
of getting to know new people.

Members of the AKRAIA chapter are selected because of their academic
accomplishments and distinction in leadership and service. Each
member has the potential to contribute greatly to the continuation of
Mortar Board's ideals.